Ethiopia Premier League Regular Season - 14
Thursday, January 8, 2026 at 5:00 AM
Dire Dawa Stadium Dire Dawa
Suhul Shire
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Negelle Arsi
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Full time

Suhul Shire vs Negelle Arsi Match Recap - Jan 8, 2026

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Negelle Arsi Continues Their Ascent with a Narrow Victory Over Suhul Shire

Bizuneh's early strike propelled Negelle Arsi to a crucial 1-0 victory against Suhul Shire, solidifying their position in the top tier of the Premier League. This match showcased the contrasting trajectories of both teams, with Negelle now sitting comfortably in third place, while Suhul remains mired in mid-table uncertainty.

Negelle Arsi's recent form has been nothing short of impressive, with four wins in their last five matches. The consistency of players like Bizuneh, who scored the decisive goal today, has been pivotal. His performance reflects a player in form, having also netted twice in the previous match against Hadiya Hosaena. This kind of scoring ability is vital for a team looking to challenge for the title, and it appears Negelle is finding their rhythm at just the right time.

Suhul Shire's struggles continue to haunt them, despite a recent win against Ethiopia Bunna. Their inability to convert chances into goals has been a recurring theme this season, averaging less than one goal per game. The pressure was palpable as they faced a Negelle side that has been defensively solid, yet Suhul failed to capitalize on any opportunities. The lack of offensive firepower is a significant concern as they look to climb the table.

Defensive organization has been a hallmark of Negelle's recent success. They have kept clean sheets in three of their last five matches, showcasing a disciplined backline that has frustrated opposing attackers. This defensive solidity was on display again today, as Suhul struggled to break through and create meaningful chances. The contrast between Negelle's defensive prowess and Suhul's attacking woes paints a stark picture of their current standings.

Midfield control proved crucial in this encounter. Negelle's ability to dominate possession allowed them to dictate the pace of the game, limiting Suhul's chances to counterattack. The midfield battle was won by Negelle, who effectively stifled Suhul's attempts to build momentum. This tactical superiority not only secured the win but also highlighted the importance of midfield dominance in modern football.

Looking ahead, both teams face pivotal matches in their upcoming fixtures. Suhul will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for a challenging away match against Hadiya Hosaena. They must find a way to convert their chances into goals if they hope to avoid slipping further down the table. Meanwhile, Negelle will look to maintain their momentum against Welayta Dicha, aiming to solidify their position among the league's elite.

The implications of this result are significant for both teams. For Negelle Arsi, this victory reinforces their status as serious contenders for the title, while Suhul Shire must confront the reality of their precarious position in the league. The pressure is mounting for Suhul, and without a swift turnaround in form, they risk being drawn into a relegation battle.

Reflecting on my pre-match predictions, I anticipated a close contest but underestimated Negelle's ability to control the game. Their tactical execution and resilience were evident, proving that they are not just riding a wave of good fortune but are instead building a formidable squad capable of challenging for honors.

Today's match encapsulated the essence of football, where form and confidence can dictate outcomes. Negelle Arsi's victory is a testament to their hard work and determination, while Suhul Shire must now dig deep to find answers before it's too late. The narrative continues to unfold, and both teams have much at stake as they navigate the remainder of the season.

Originally published on FollowTeams at January 8, 2026 at 12:15 PM UTC

Match Prediction

Predicted Winner: Negelle Arsi
Combo Double chance : draw or Negelle Arsi and -3.5 goals
Suhul Shire
0%
Draw
50%
Negelle Arsi
50%

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